Reconnection, Employment, & Learning (REAL) Program

The Reconnection, Employment & Learning (REAL) program is a justice reintegration initiative funded by the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) and delivered by Arnhem Land Progress Aboriginal Corporation (ALPA) in the Top End of the Northern Territory.

REAL supports Aboriginal people who are in custody or transitioning from incarceration back into community to return home safely, with dignity, and with practical supports in place.

The program works with individuals before release and after their return to community, helping to reduce the risks associated with re entry by strengthening connections to family, community, culture, and essential services. REAL focuses on practical preparation for release, coordinated support during transition, and ongoing assistance once back in community.

Support provided through REAL may include:

  • reconnection with family and community supports
  • assistance to access housing, identification, health, and social services
  • support to engage in education, training, or employment pathways where appropriate
  • culturally safe guidance to help people navigate the complex challenges of reintegration

REAL is grounded in a through care approach, recognising that successful reintegration requires continuity, cultural understanding, and trust. The program aims to support stable returns to community and reduce the likelihood of re incarceration.

Key documents:

Child Safety and the National Child Safe Principles

ALPA Community Services is committed to providing safe, culturally strong, and supportive environments for children and young people, including those impacted by family involvement in the justice system.

We uphold the National Child Safe Principles, embedding child safety and wellbeing into our governance, workforce practices, and service delivery. All staff and volunteers meet child safe screening and training requirements, and ALPA actively promotes the voices, rights, and cultural safety of Aboriginal children and young people.

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